Cirsium spinosum — Edible Plant | Edible Plant Database

Summary

A dwarf perennial thistle reaching only 0.3 m, featuring hermaphroditic flowers from September to October with seeds maturing through October. Pollinated by bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles; self-fertile. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with mildly acidic to basic pH. Requires full sun, moist soil, and notably tolerates maritime exposure.

Description

A dwarf perennial thistle reaching only 0.3 m, featuring hermaphroditic flowers from September to October with seeds maturing through October. Pollinated by bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles; self-fertile. Grows in light sandy, medium loamy, or heavy clay soils with mildly acidic to basic pH. Requires full sun, moist soil, and notably tolerates maritime exposure.

Edible Uses

The root should be peeled and cooked before eating. It is stout with scarcely developed rhizomes and is likely to be rich in inulin, a starch that cannot be digested by humans. This starch passes straight through the digestive system and, in some people, ferments to produce flatulence. Leaves can also be eaten cooked.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Distribution

It is a temperate plant.

Where It Grows

Asia, Japan,

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. An easily grown plant, succeeding in any ordinary garden soil in a sunny position.

Propagation

Sow seed in early spring or autumn in situ. Germination usually takes place within 2–8 weeks at 20°C. Can also be propagated by division in spring or autumn.